Things to Do on Maui in March

Post by: Maui Man

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Eleven Ways to Get a Start on Spring in Hawaii

March might be marked by the last of winter’s woes around the globe, but here on Maui the tropical temps are at their finest: Not too hot—and certainly not cold—with breezes that are downright heavenly.

Meaning, it’s one of the loveliest months to experience the Valley Isle. Here are eleven stellar ways to make the most of it:

1. Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm + Grandma’s Coffee House

The lion’s share of Maui’s resorts line the fabled beaches on the leeward side of the island. Which is all well and good—the beaches are legendary for a reason—but March is often thought of the last stretch of winter; a time to turn in and relish what’s left of the quiet.

Experience this and more at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. Situated on the rolling slopes of Haleakala, this mauve-hued oasis is big on beauty but small on noise, presenting 55,000 lavender plants and over 45 varieties. In other words? The 13.5-acre plantation smells like the world’s most blissed-out spa. It’s equally delightful to tour, which you can accomplish on a solo trek, with a guide, on a cart—or, if you have keiki in your crew, on a get-your-brain-going treasure hunt that’ll take tots into the farm’s remoter spots. Pick up a bag of lavender swag at their gift shop—where you’ll find both spa and culinary items—before setting off for brunch at Grandma’s Coffee House in Keokea. With sweeping views of those famous beaches 2,800 feet below, and a coffee tree in the center of its deck, this cozy café is like coming home to, well, grandma’s—only in the tropics.

2. Mokapu Beach + Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

And speaking of those epic beaches: Wailea presents the best of them, with miles of sugar-sanded coves perfect forsnorkelling, swimming, stand-up paddling (and good old relaxing). The front yard of the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort—a sleek hotel that consistently picks up well-deserved awards—crystallizes the region’s reputation: Less crowded than the neighboring beaches of Ulua, Wailea, and Keawakapu, Mokapu Beach is framed by grassy expanses, a wooden bridge, and towering kiawes. Meanwhile, the outer islands of Maui County—Kaho’olawe, Molokini, Lanai—seem to laze in the sunshine. Join them with an umbrella drink from the Andaz’s Bumbye Beach Bar before hitting up their spa for a custom body treatment...and end it all with an unforgettable meal, sourced with local ingredients, at the sultry and delicious Morimoto’s.

3. Prince Kuhio Day Celebration + Sunset Cruise

March 26th commemorates the birth of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana‘ole—a Koloa, Kauai native who helped make Hawaii what it is today. Bound for kingdom before the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown, Kuhio nevertheless fulfilled his stately role, dedicating his life to the perseverance of his native culture. Recognized as a public holiday, residents and visitors alike take to the Banyan Tree in Lahaina for a day of fun under the sun to celebrate his birthday, with live music, lei demonstrations, local art, and ono food. Top it all off with a sunset cocktail cruise aboard the Ali’i Nui, a luxury catamaran that departs from neighboring Maalaea.

4. Nakalele Blowhole + The Mill House

Maui’s northwestern coast is something to savor: Between the lofty pines, cobalt water, and rugged shores, each bit along the route to Kahakuloa is too novel and stunning to squander. Good thing the route itself demands a slower pace: narrow and windy, the Kahekili Highway deserves its status as the “other” Road to Hana. Along the way towards some of the best banana bread the island has to offer (at Julia’s in Kahakuloa proper), you’ll be inspired to snap a thousand shots at the Nakalele Blowhole. This natural geyser is one hopping spot, and we don’t necessarily mean in terms of visitors: Seawater escapes through its tire-sized hole and vaults up to 100 feet in the air. Post-awe, buckle up and bend around the head of the island towards the Central Valley, where lush hills and far-reaching views are made all the more romantic given the road’s remoteness; then, end the day with libations and bites at The Mill House in Waikapu. Winner of 2017’s ‘Aipono Award for Most Innovative Menu, this lovely venue presents dishes and drinks inspired by Maui’s leading organic farms, including the tropical plantation on which it rests.

One of the boons of modern Hawaii is that it melds conventional customs with contemporary practices. In plainer English, it means you can start your day learning the art of longboarding and end it with a fete and feast that celebrates—in March’s case— Ireland. For the former, head to Cove Park in sun-drenched Kihei, where skilled instructors can teach you how to hang ten; for the latter, make your way to Mulligans on the Blue in Wailea—an Irish pub that inarguably throws the most rocking St. Paddy’s Day on the island. Prepare for debauchery, should you stay past sun-down: this lively tavern is well-known for its raucous, memorable parties.

6. Heli Tour + Paia Town

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters sweeps you off your feet—literally and metaphorically, of course. One of the longest-operating helicopter companies in the state, the acclaimed outfit combines safety and elegance aboard their state-of-the-art crafts, which swoop over secluded valleys and the radical waterfalls they veil. Their West Maui and Molokai Tour—which takes passengers to some of the highest sea cliffs on Earth— gives new depth to the idea of lushness, while their complete island tour will hammer home why Maui is so often called “magic.” Back down on the ground, head to “The Windsurfing Capital of the World” to while away the rest of your day, where you’ll find charming boutiques, excellent galleries, laidback bars—and what is perhaps the island’s tastiest fish tacos (we’re looking at you, Paia Fish Market).

7. HawaiianMusicSeriesConcert+MalaOceanTavern

Lahaina’s Front Street still holds part of its wild whaling past—you can feel it in the whole energy on this world-renowned boulevard—but it also offers more tranquil pursuits, including its monthly Hawaiian Music Series Concert. Presented under the largest banyan tree in Hawaii, this free performance features some of Maui’s top slack key, contemporary guitar, and ‘ukulele talent. (Impromptu hula has also been known to happen.) Once you’ve had your musical fill, sate yourself in a different way at Mala Ocean Tavern. Located on the west edge of Front Street, this seaside gem possesses a menu that’s made all the more exquisite given its reliance on local, organic ingredients. Calamari gets a spin with mojo verde and aioli, while Bolognese is served with—yes—ahi sausage.

8. Lanai Town Party + Hulopoe Beach

Tech billionaire Larry Ellison bought Lanai in 2012, turning the small island into a luxury playground for the rich and famous (its resorts are straight-up enchanting). But that doesn’t mean “The Pineapple Island” has lost its homegrown panache—something that’s best seen at its monthly Town Party. Held around the historic Dole Park in Lanai City, this community event booms with live music, terrific food, and crafts by local vendors. Ferries depart from Lahaina Harbor and deliver guests to Manele Bay, where, pre-party, you can take a dip at Hulopoe Beach, a designated marine preserve brimming with brilliantly-colored fish. Rent a snorkel mask or bring one with you—these aquatic creatures are sheer treasures.

9. Rappel Tour + Mama’s Fish House

Deemed “one of the best things to do on Maui” by NBC, Rappel Maui propels bold souls into the private rainforest that took center stage in Jurassic Park—a verdant jungle an hour deep on the Road to Hana. Manned by an expert team of adrenaline junkies, this exhilarating tour starts with lessons and ends with hands-on experience—to the tune, that is, of rappelling down a 50-foot waterfall. Post-thrills, kick back with a mai tai at Mama’s Fish House before splurging on a plate of seafood so fresh the menu details where—and when—it originated.

10.Pa’iloa Beach + Hana Coast Gallery

Twain and Michener may have sung Hamoa Beach’s praises, but we have a special place in our hearts for Pa’iloa. Located at the mouth of Wai‘anapanapa State Park, this striking cove—all black sand, tropical foliage, and powerful swells—is surrounded by a cornucopia of natural wonders (including underwater caves, lava tubes, and a natural sea arch). Sunbathe, swim (with caution), and explore before making your way to Hana Coast Gallery. Regarded as one of the preeminent galleries in Hawaii, this intimate shop features pieces by local artists—many of them Hana residents—in the form of carvings, paintings, and sculptures.

11. Haleakala Sunrise + Ho’okipa

Few things are more astonishing than watching the sun rise from the rim of one of the world’s largest dormant volcanos, a spectacle so dazzling it attracts more than 1.2 million viewers annually. Appreciate Haleakala’s early-a.m. splendor with Haleakala Eco Tours, one of four companies allowed to offer tours at the national park’s summit. Their journey to the volcano (and the gorgeous country below it) is enhanced with cultural and historical information provided by NAI-Certified Guides—all of which is made sweeter given the relationship they have with the island and its environment. When you return to sea level, meander past the aforementioned Paia to Ho’okipa, a surfer’s dreamland (and a honu haven) that, combined with the soaring views you saw earlier, will inspire you to start looking into your next Maui vacation—if not on the drive back to your accommodations, then most certainly before April.

Need Accommodations?

Maui Man Condo Rentals would love to host your spring stay on Maui. We have a variety of units to suit your needs and some great last minute deals for March! Check out this one bedroom unit at the Hale Kamaole, available March 24-April 2, 2018 for $175/night US plus tax and cleaning. This unit sleeps 4 guests and is located directly across the street from the Kamaole Beaches.